NEWPORT-MESA SCHOOL BOARD WRAP-UP

WHAT HAPPENED:

The school board gave approval for Whittier Elementary School to ask the

state Board of Education for permission to expand its preschool program.

WHAT IT MEANS: The Whittier preschool program will now submit an

expansion grant to the state Board of Education to expand it from one to

three classes. Pending state approval, the Whittier will add two more

portable classrooms and 96 additional students.

WHAT THEY SAID:

“I wouldn’t normally vote in favor of this, but it looks like a

comprehensive program, “ said Wendy Leece, a school board member.

VOTE: 6-0 in favor

WHAT HAPPENED:

The school board delayed making a decision on Corona del Mar High School

principal Don Martin’s request to use leftover funds for the final

improvements to the campus. The board did approve the first item of phase

three -- technology cabling in two classrooms -- because the work was to

be done during spring break.

WHAT IT MEANS:

Martin has been asked to prepare an explanation of the new project.

Although the board previously approved phase three of the project, there

have been some changes to the plans.

WHAT THEY SAID:

“There seems to be a big emphasis on sports on this list,” said school

board member Wendy Leece.

NO VOTE

WHAT HAPPENED:

The school board approved the district’s participation in the Best Buy

music zone demonstration project to support the United Way.

WHAT IT MEANS:

Best Buy Co. has provided funds through the United Way of America to fund

three regional after-school band programs. The three schools targeted are

Davis Education Center, Rea Elementary School and TeWinkle Middle School.

If there are available funds for only one program, Davis will be the

recipient.

WHAT THEY SAID:

“We need to encourage more of these programs to go through the United

Way,” said David Brooks, school board vice president.

VOTE: 6-0 in favor

WHAT HAPPENED:

The school board voted to support national “No TV Week.”

WHAT IT MEANS:

During the week of April 24-30, all schools, parents, teachers, students

and community members will be encouraged to participate in a TV boycott.

VOTE: 6-0 in favor

NEXT MEETING: 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, District Education Center,

2985-A Bear St., Costa Mesa.